Georgetown coal mound collapse sparks search for bulldozer operator [Video]

GEORGETOWN, S.C. (WCSC) – Authorities in Georgetown have confirmed that a search is underway for the operator of a bulldozer after a coal pile’s collapse led to them falling in.

Officials were on the scene just after 8 p.m. Thursday at the Santee Cooper Winyah Generating Station following reports of a coal mound collapse that had buried a bulldozer and its operator.

Georgetown County officials say it took eight hours to locate the bulldozer, but they have yet to find the operator or any other person.

The employee is still missing.

Santee Cooper shared a statement Friday morning:

“Last night, an accident at Winyah Generating Station resulted in a bulldozer and its operator falling into an area of the coal pile. Search efforts began immediately and remain underway this morning. This is a difficult situation, and our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved and to their families. The operator works for a contractor that Santee Cooper has used for years.

We will be conducting a thorough investigation.”

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